The Saddleback United SC GU15 Fense team.

The Saddleback United SC GU15 team, which is nicknamed Fense, enjoyed a dominating tournament run in the 2010 State Cup, making their way to the semifinals of the GU15 President division. Fense appeared in the semifinals this past weekend where they fell to the eventual champion, Fram C Q, 2-0.

Fense won their bracket, which led them to the Round of 32. Once there, the competition improved and play intensified. Fense leaned on keepers Saniya Syed and Victoria Campbell to step in and they rose to the occasion.

Fense advanced to the Round of 16 with a 3-0 win against Poway Vaqueros GU15 Nike. From there they played a very aggressive Claremont Stars team and defeated the Stars, 3-1. Only one win away from the semifinals, the team responded with a great game beating LAFC Chelsea White, 5-0, in the quarterfinals.

In addition to great play in goal, the team’s defense was anchored by Jade Amdor. Goals by Ashley Donahue, Victoria Campbell, Marrin Tyler, Elisabeth Luna, Elise Revetta, Julianne Flynn, Sierra Salviati, Lucy Almao and Noelle Kobayashi rounded out a very balanced attack by Fense.

No, Fense is not a typo; the team from Mission Viejo nicknamed themselves that.  The team, the core of which has been together since they were ten years old, was completing a practice years ago when their coach pulled them together for a concluding cheer.  They were asked if they wanted to cheer offense or defense and the reply was both. The team clasped hands and cheered FENSE! The nickname stuck.

Saddleback United Soccer Club was established in 2006 by Olympic Gold medalist Joy Fawcett to create a unique soccer environment that combines excellent soccer training and a commitment to positive coaching.  The GU15 Fense squad is coached by Erin Misaki and Andy Campbell.